Thursday, November 12, 2015

Tofino Surf Trip and Jr High Retreat

 Last week we went surfing in Tofino

After a long week of studying and writing assignments, we decided that it was time to pack our bags and head for the most western coast of British Columbia.  Tofino’s beaches are world famous for locals and tourists to come and learn how to surf.  This three day trip was much needed for our students and a fun way to switch gears after Gospels class.

We took a few stops along the way

Although Tofino was the destination, we decided to stop at a few scenic spots along the way to experience the true heart of BC.  One of theses stops was Cathedral Grove, a beautiful forest hike amongst some of Canada’s largest and most spectacular trees.  With some trees measuring as tall as 250ft in height and 29ft in circumference, this was truly an amazing experience to see yet another amazing aspect of God’s amazing creation.




We hit the water with style

It was finally time for us to go surfing!  So we packed into the vans and drove to Cox bay, where our surf instructors Estuardo and Antonio were waiting for us.  Once we arrived we cinched on our wetsuits, grabbed our surfboards and headed to the beach to hang-ten on the water!


Although our first day of surfing was rather cloudy, our second day on the water was sunny and beautiful, which helped a bit while jumping into the cold 12 degree water.  It was also quite entertaining to watch as we all shrieked while putting on our cold damp wetsuits early in the morning!


After two long, and very tiring, days of paddling and fighting waves, we were excited to see everyone stand on their boards and ride the waves of Tofino, most for their first time ever.  This was by far one of our most memorable experiences so far in the Kaléo Program.  Though challenging, this trip was just another example of how God’s creation can be experienced in so many unique ways.



Camp Qwanoes and the Kaléo Program would like to thank our instructors Estuardo and Antonio, as well as Tofino Surf Adventures for a memorable experience on the water this year!  We would also like to thank Christ Community Church for opening up their doors and giving us a cozy home for the week.



We ended the week with Jr High Retreat

To end off the amazing week we had in Tofino, Camp Qwanoes was flooded once again with a wave of campers.  This time around we hosted Jr High campers aged 12-14.  Many of our students were involved in serving during the retreat in roles such as counselling, activity support, maintenance, and the kitchen.  As always it was a very successful weekend and we were sad to see the campers go after only a few short days.





Please be in prayer

Please be in prayer this week for our students as they are entering into one of their busiest times of the program.  Currently they are immersed in reading assignments, papers, group projects and serving in retreats.  As this is a full schedule, they are beginning to feel the weight of the program and need prayer for energy and focus.  Additionally we would like to ask that you would be praying for the many campers that have been, and will be involved in our retreats this season.  Again we thank you for your support and prayers for our students!

In Him,

Dustin Smith
Camp Qwanoes, Kaléo Program Intern

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